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Does eye disease run in the family?

EYE DISEASE AND YOUR FAMILY

Vision problems can be hereditary. Make sure you understand the conditions that may run in the family.

HEREDITARYEYE DISEASES

Some eye diseases can be genetic. Early detection is vital, so it’s good to have an idea of your family’s health history. There are several eye conditions that can run in the family, some of which are more likely to occur than others.

Three of the most common problems are explained below.

Age Related macular-degeneration (AMD)

Age-related macular degeneration mostly affects people when they reach their 60s.

There is not cure for AMD but there are treatment options to help manage the condition. The sooner it is diagnosed, the better the outcome, so if you have a history of the disease in your family, make sure you visit your eye care practitioner.

GLAUCOMA

Glaucoma occurs when fluid pressure build up in the eye.

Symptoms include cloudy vision and sensitivity to light. If left untreated, glaucoma can deteriorate and lead to ‘tunnel vision’, which is like looking through a long tube and is irreversible. Treatments for glaucoma include eye drops and laser treatment.

CATARACTS

Cataracts are cloudy areas that develop on the lens of the eye, leading to blurred or hazy vision.

Some babies are born with cataracts, which can worsen with age. In many countries, babies have their eyes checked at birth. If you are concerned about your baby’s vision, speak to eye care practitioner.